In a stunning upset at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka crushed Australia by 8 wickets to storm into the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. The hosts chased down a challenging 182 with remarkable ease, wrapping up the victory in just 18 overs.
Australia’s innings kicked off explosively, powered by a match-defining 104-run partnership between captain Mitchell Marsh (54) and Travis Head (56). Despite their efforts, the total of 181 proved insufficient against Sri Lanka’s batting firepower.
Pathum Nissanka delivered a masterful unbeaten century, smashing 100 off 52 balls with 15 boundaries, while Kusal Mendis chipped in with a brisk 51. Captain Dasun Shanaka beamed post-match, crediting the win to unwavering self-belief and pitch mastery. ‘This ranks among our finest recent performances,’ he said. ‘Even without Mathisha Pathirana, our body language stayed positive. Every player was eager to contribute.’
The young pacer Pathirana’s hamstring injury was a blow, compounding the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga. Yet Shanaka remained optimistic: ‘We’re taking the positives forward.’ He highlighted Nissanka’s knock as inevitable, noting the shorter boundaries aided their aggressive chase after opting to field first.
Securing a hat-trick of wins, Sri Lanka’s Super 8 qualification marks a triumphant return to contention after years. ‘It’s fantastic to advance,’ Shanaka added, thanking roaring fans. ‘Hoping for semifinals ahead.’ This victory signals Sri Lanka’s resurgence on the global stage.